Inside The Bills » Rex Ryanhttp://blogs.buffalobills.com
Official Blog of the Buffalo BillsTue, 03 Mar 2015 20:18:35 +0000enhourly1http://wordpress.com/http://s2.wp.com/i/buttonw-com.png » Rex Ryanhttp://blogs.buffalobills.com
Spiller comments on free agencyhttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/03/03/spiller-comments-on-free-agency/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/03/03/spiller-comments-on-free-agency/#commentsTue, 03 Mar 2015 18:21:24 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=43014]]>C.J. Spiller was just responding to a question, but his answer has some believing he expects to reach the free agent market on March 10th.

“To be honest, I’m excited about the opportunity,” said Spiller. “Obviously, you want to stay at a place that you have been there your whole career. But, as both of you guys know, sometimes that doesn’t happen in this business and you have to move on. You thank the organization for what they have done for you and you continue your career somewhere else. I’m looking forward to it. Me and my agent Chad Speck, we have a great game plan set and looking forward to attacking it.”

While you certainly cannot blame Spiller and his representative from having a plan for the free agent market, it also makes it sound less and less likely that the Bills free agent will be back in red, white and blue. Spiller also did say that while he hasn’t spoken to new offensive coordinator Greg Roman, he has studied the 49ers offense and didn’t close the door on a return to Buffalo.

“Anytime an offensive coordinator loves to run the ball, as a running back that’s what you want to do,” he said. “It’ll be a great opportunity if I do happen to go back because I know that both him and Rex [Ryan] want to run the ball; they want to ground and pound. It’ll be an awesome opportunity.”

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/03/03/spiller-comments-on-free-agency/feed/0Chris BrownFan Friday 2-27http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/27/fan-friday-2-27-2/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/27/fan-friday-2-27-2/#commentsFri, 27 Feb 2015 16:39:41 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42972]]>NFL free agency is just over a week away. The Bills are expected to be players. For now let’s get to this week’s edition of questions from you the Bills fans on email at AskChris@bills.nfl.net and on Twitter @ChrisBrownBills.

1 – Chris,

My question is- What veteran quarterbacks do you feel that could be available to help the Bills immediately? Definitely not Cutler, the Bills have already proven once you get under his skin he’s done competing! Maybe Sanchez? Do you think he can turn the corner in his leadership and playing ability?

Kevin E.
Colorado by way of Hamburg, NY

CB: Josh McCown is the obvious target right now. I think the Bills will see if any veteran quarterbacks that don’t have a future with their current clubs are released in salary cap moves prior to the start of the new league year before pouncing on another free agent target. Rest assured they are dead set on adding a veteran quarterback to their roster in some way.

2 – Chris,

Thanks again for the great coverage of our Bills, my question revolves around the defense going back to a 3-4. How do you see the front seven shaking out? Is Dareus the nose tackle or do we go with him and Kyle Williams at defensive end and add a big bodied space eater? I’m also curious about the linebackers, I’d think you’d put Alonso and Brown inside, Mario on one side and then I’m lost. If Hughes stays in the fold does he play the other side? Where does this leave Bradham who emerged as a solid player? I look forward to your input thanks again.

Will.
GO BILLS!

CB: With respect to the defensive line you have to remember that Ryan’s system is not a traditional 3-4 with a true nose tackle. They don’t have a true two gap, head up on the center nose. They play more of a shade alignment with two defensive tackles. I think Mario Williams will split time at defensive end and outside linebacker depending on the down and distance.

Manny Lawson will shift to strong side linebacker much like he did in Pettine’s defense two seasons ago. If Jerry Hughes is back he’ll presumably rotate in and out with Lawson and likely flip back and forth between and end and outside linebacker role.

As for the full-time linebackers I think it will be a feeling out process for the defensive staff. They have 2013 tape of Kiko Alonso in this defense, but they do not have any feel for Preston Brown in that system. They also don’t have the current version of Nigel Bradham in this defense aside from perhaps the last two games of 2013 when he began to show flashes of his true ability. So how they align those three will take shape through the course of the OTA practices.

The secondary obviously remains largely the same with the decision of free agent Da’Norris Searcy being the only possible departure.

3 – Chris,

Has Shane Carden from ECU been on anyone’s radar at OBD? I live in the Carolinas so we get more coverage about this guy. He’s playing in the senior bowl as well. He has reputation for being an accurate thrower (to me this should be the top consideration for a QB). Maybe a steal in the mid/late rounds. Thoughts from the insiders?

John

CB: Obviously the Bills scouting department is aware of Carden. He was a throwing quarterback at the NFL Combine last week. Carden set all kinds of records at East Carolina, but my concern lies with his throwing mechanics and arm strength. I don’t think he has the arm to cut passes through the wind that we often find here in Buffalo come November and December.

A lot of his passes float and hang in the air too long. He also has a propensity to throw off his back foot. There’s no debating his career was a very productive one. He broke all of David Garrard’s passing records at ECU, but I’ll be surprised if he’s taken before the seventh round. At best he’s a career backup in the league by most accounts.

4 - Hello Chris,

Thank you for all your hard work keeping those of us away from Buffalo updated on the best team in the NFL!

While I do not dismiss Rex Ryan’s abilities as a coach or motivator, my defining image of his tenure in New York was the newspaper cover image of a Jets clown car with coach Ryan at the wheel. Traditionally the team has eschewed flamboyant personalities in the past. Has the team discussed this with him, or can we expect the seemingly endless diatribe of controversy, arrogance and inanity that plagued the Jets?

James

CB: I think you can probably take his handling of his press conference with the NFL media at the NFL Combine as an example of what to expect. He sidestepped several opportunities to be bold with a prediction or two for the 2015 season. He also dodged loaded questions about his former team. So I’m anticipating a little more self-restraint from coach Ryan this year. We’ll see.

5 - Chris
It seems that with the restrictions in the NFLPA agreement, it is difficult to work with players except during certain dates in the offseason ?
If we had some interesting players, could a team rather than sign them to a contract, perhaps open a Football Training School with free tuition and room and board to develop their skills? Those popping out would be offered a contract etc. don’t use team coaches, rather qualified instructors with experience in positions we have a need.

Thanks
Jim in Florida

CB: Unfortunately I don’t see the NFLPA agreeing to that in any way. The players fought for time away from the game to reduce the pounding on their bodies through the offseason with limitations on padded practices and live hitting. They’re not going to agree to do that in a separate training academy. Most players do that on their own.

I suppose there could be street free agents interested in that kind of arrangement, but who is paying for it? NFL owners are not going to incur another cost to make that happen. I just think it’s unrealistic.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/27/fan-friday-2-27-2/feed/0Chris BrownSpiller: I love me some Rex Ryan nowhttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/24/spiller-i-love-me-some-rex-ryan-now/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/24/spiller-i-love-me-some-rex-ryan-now/#commentsTue, 24 Feb 2015 20:08:26 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42926]]>
Bills impending free agent RB C.J. Spiller appeared on SiriusXM NFL Radio Tuesday and discussed his free agent options, leaving the door open for a return to Buffalo. Two factors that may work in Buffalo’s favor are their plans to run the ball a lot and their head coach.

“The Bills made a tremendous hire in Rex Ryan,” said Spiller. “Definitely I think Rex was the guy for the Buffalo Bills. I love me some Rex Ryan now.”

Spiller has a relationship with Ryan having crossed paths several times at Clemson, Spiller’s alma mater, where Ryan’s son is currently a wide receiver.

The Bills back also expressed an interest in offensive coordinator Greg Roman’s system, which will have a strong commitment to running the ball.

“I have been studying some of the 49ers and what they did. He’s a guy who loves to run the football and as a running back that’s what you want a guy that likes to run the ball, no matter what,” said Spiller of Roman. “I think too many times if a run gets stopped for a two-yard gain some offensive coordinators get away from that. But coach Roman sticks to his guns. He’s going to be physical. You’ve got to excited about that as a runner.”

At the top of Spiller’s checklist of things he wants in a team was being a fit in the offense.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/24/spiller-i-love-me-some-rex-ryan-now/feed/0Chris BrownFan Friday 2-20http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/20/fan-friday-2-20-2/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/20/fan-friday-2-20-2/#commentsFri, 20 Feb 2015 18:12:32 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42880]]>It’s day three of our Combine Coverage presented by NAPA. Let’s get to your questions from email at AskChris@bills.nfl.net and on Twitter @ChrisBrownBills.

CB: As GM Doug Whaley has said Roman wants a mixed bag of backs that can do different things. Just because you didn’t see a C.J. Spiller type back in San Francisco’s offense when Roman was running things out there doesn’t mean he can’t use a talent like Spiller in his scheme.

Whaley characterized Bryce Brown and Spiller as the speed backs, Dixon as the power back and Fred Jackson as the pass catcher/pass protector. So it appears Roman would like to have three or four backs to work with, not to mention a fullback.

Additionally Rex Ryan has said that with their coaching staff it’s player over scheme every time, so if they can keep Spiller in the fold they’ll devise a way to make him a productive element in Roman’s system.

CB: I think Marpet opened some eyes at the Senior Bowl when he showed he could hang with the top senior talent in college despite playing at Division III Hobart. He’s off to a good start with his workout here at the NFL Combine as well, running the fastest 40 time among offensive lineman with a five flat.

Obviously the 40 time isn’t a major influencer on draft grade for offensive linemen, but Marpet is legitimizing his ability to play at the NFL level. The Bills did meet with him and though he played tackle in college, he projects to guard in the NFL.

Will he be there in the fourth round? It’s possible. He could also be gone in the third.

3 – Chris

Thanks for providing a forum for fans to express opinions and ask questions.
With all the QB’s available in Free Agency, College, Canadian League, other pro leagues, I can’t grasp the Bills unable to develop one over the last 20 years. We seem to have chosen one alone and spend all our resources in proving we were right to pick them, rather than looking for the one who pops out and distances himself from the others. Brady popped out, as did Wilson, Romo, Foles etc. I’d be interested if you think this process will change with the new regime ?

Also, if we have two QB’s, shouldn’t they be similar in style, either mobile or pocket passers, so if one is injured the offense doesn’t have to change to adapt to two different styles, like last year with Manuel and Orton ?

Thanks;
Jim in Florida

CB: I think the Bills are more apt than ever to add another young quarterback to the roster, especially with a thin free agent class of options at the position. Adding two veterans is probably unlikely so a vet and a young player is the most likely combination to fortify the position on Buffalo’s roster.

I found it interesting that Doug Whaley and his personnel department intend to meet personally with every quarterback prospect here at the Combine not named Mariota and Winston. After the Combine they also will dispatch QBs coach David Lee to go and work these quarterback prospects out at or around their pro days. Whaley described their planned search to be exhaustive.

He mentioned this on the John Murphy Show and in addition when asked about the philosophy of drafting a quarterback every year he said he was not opposed to it.

I would think similar style quarterbacks would make sense, but sometimes you’re willing to sacrifice similarity if it means getting a better player overall.

4 - Hi Chris

Could you please explain to me how David Lee, who couldn’t get Jets quarterbacks to play better, is going to help EJ Manuel and any other quarterback we have on the roster ?

Thanks, Dale

CB: Rex Ryan has answered this question. David Lee is an expert when it comes to teaching quarterback fundamentals, and really that’s his main job with the signal callers on the roster. To keep their mechanics sound. That’s easier with some quarterbacks than others obviously, but knowing the worker that EJ Manuel is I would anticipate seeing improvement in everything from Manuel’s footwork, to the consistency of his arm angle, release point, hip drive, etc.

While you may knock the results in New York with Geno Smith, David Lee successfully turned Tony Romo from a third string QB into a Pro Bowl starter. I’ve talked to David Lee about that transformation and he said the only reason Romo was successful was because he wanted to work at it.

Romo needed to make 10-thousand throws to improve his passing efficiency because his release point was too low as a younger player and too many of his passes were getting batted down at the line. But he worked with Lee every day. Knowing that Manuel has a similar work ethic, I think we’ll see a difference with him too.

5 - Chris,

I was very disappointed to see Jim Schwartz leave considering the outstanding work he did with the defense last year especially with stopping the run. Now with Rex Ryan in the fold, the defense will most likely look very similar to what we experienced during the 2013 season under Mike Pettine. With that said, our run defense was not very good under Pettine. Is there real reason to worry it might struggle again with Rex Ryan going back to more of the 3-4 hybrid system that Pettine used? I know we have an outstanding defensive line but they seemed to be in better position to stop the run under Schwartz’s system. What are your thoughts on this? Thanks.

-Mike from Syracuse

CB: I don’t think there should be a big worry about the run defense. Yes, Schwartz did simplify things, which made it easier to execute. By the same token Rex Ryan defenses have almost always finished in the top 10 in run defense. Buffalo finished 11th last season. So if anything it could improve under Ryan based on the track record of his defenses.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/20/fan-friday-2-20-2/feed/0Chris BrownCalling plays something Rex still plans to dohttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/calling-plays-something-rex-still-plans-to-do/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/calling-plays-something-rex-still-plans-to-do/#commentsWed, 18 Feb 2015 21:01:46 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42819]]>
Rex Ryan has held onto and relinquished some of his play calling duties over the years when it comes to running the defense on his clubs. In Buffalo it sounds like he’ll handle play calling for the most part on defense in 2015.

When asked about how much he will handle the play calling, Ryan gave strong indication that he’ll be sending most of the plays in on the defensive side of the ball.

“I do plan on calling the majority of the defense, but I think, I’ve never done it 100 percent, whether it’s Dennis Thurman, Mike Pettine, I’ve relied on a lot of guys and I’ll continue to do so, but there is maybe a little more challenge when you are a play caller,” he said. “It’s probably easier to observe other things if you’re not focused on calling the next series. But I can tell you I’m much more comfortable calling a defense and recognizing that there are some challenges that go with it as well.”

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/calling-plays-something-rex-still-plans-to-do/feed/0Chris BrownRex RyanSpiller updatehttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/spiller-update-2/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/spiller-update-2/#commentsWed, 18 Feb 2015 20:58:50 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42817]]>
The Bills have stated all along they’d like to return C.J. Spiller to their roster knowing he’s eligible to become a free agent next month. Head coach Rex Ryan reiterated those wishes at the NFL Combine Wednesday.

“We certainly would like to have him back and remain a Buffalo Bill,” said Ryan. “He’s a talented guy and I would think he would want to do that being in this kind of system, seeing the success that other backs have had in this kind of system. But we’ll see how it works out also recognizing that the NFL sometimes you’re not always able to keep the guys you really want.”

When asked if running back is a priority positional need this offseason Ryan said the level of priority would be impacted by how things play out with Spiller.

“If C.J. Spiller is on board then that need becomes a lot less,” said Ryan.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/spiller-update-2/feed/0Chris BrownRex on McCownhttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/rex-on-mccown/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/rex-on-mccown/#commentsWed, 18 Feb 2015 17:15:59 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42814]]>
Bills head coach Rex Ryan is heading to the podium here at the NFL Combine in Indy shortly, but he already spoke with Buffalobills.com and addressed where things sit with free agent QB Josh McCown, who visited with the Bills on Monday.

“I think the big thing obviously we have an interest in Josh. He’s a veteran quarterback. He has been with several teams. We know his history obviously, but this gave us an opportunity to really sit down and visit with Josh and how he thought we would fit him and vice versa. You’re able to get medical stuff on him, information and all kinds of things. When it’s appropriate we’ll proceed however we’re going to proceed in finding a quarterback, but obviously we feel good about him. We think that we’re not the only team that’s interested in him, maybe in different roles.”

McCown is reportedly in Indianapolis to talk and meet with other NFL clubs to assess his full slate of options. The 35-year old was cut by Tampa Bay last week, less than a year after signing a two-year free agent deal with the Bucs.

For the entire one-on-one interview with Rex Ryan stay tuned to Buffalobills.com as we’ll have the interview up later in the day. Buffalobills.com Combine coverage is presented by NAPA Auto Parts.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/18/rex-on-mccown/feed/0Chris BrownRyan: With young QB patience a virtuehttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/13/ryan-with-young-qb-patience-a-virtue/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/13/ryan-with-young-qb-patience-a-virtue/#commentsFri, 13 Feb 2015 19:50:00 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42785]]>Rex Ryan knows what kind of quarterback situation he’s walking into here in Buffalo with the position very much up in the air. He also knows the most talented QB currently on the roster is very young and he’s learned from his experiences with young signal callers before.

“You always want to be patient with a young talented guy,” said Ryan in a radio interview this week on WBEN. “Obviously EJ was drafted in the first round for many reasons. It’s funny because probably 15 years ago everybody would be patient with a young quarterback and now you see these guys coming in and a rookie or two might step forward and do some good things. EJ did. He had some really good moments.”

Where Ryan believes Manuel needs to improve is with the consistency of his fundamental execution and Ryan intends to tab David Lee for that job.

“He’s got to improve fundamentally and I think that’s where it starts,” he said. “David Lee is here as our quarterbacks coach, we’re excited about that. EJ will certainly have that opportunity to be that quarterback. As far as who else is coming in I can honestly say there isn’t a person in our organization who knows that right now. We’re still in the evaluation stage.”

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/13/ryan-with-young-qb-patience-a-virtue/feed/0Chris BrownFan Friday 2-13http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/13/fan-friday-2-13-2/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/13/fan-friday-2-13-2/#commentsFri, 13 Feb 2015 17:44:29 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42783]]>Don’t forget our NFL combine coverage begins in earnest over the weekend leading up to our coverage in Indianapolis at Lucas Oil Stadium Tuesday presented by Napa. Let’s get to your questions from email at AskChris@bills.nfl.net and on Twitter @ChrisBrownBills.

1 – Chris
Are there specific areas that EJ has improved in by watching Orton from the side lines? Also, how is his relationship with the other players now, compared to before he was replaced by Orton?

Ppante

CB: He told me specifically that he learned about what’s most important to focus on during the week leading up to the game from a game plan and opponent study standpoint. Manuel said in the past there may have been some things he spent too much time on in his preparation that didn’t carry as high a priority as other aspects of his film study.

I also felt he became more accurate in the practice setting when it came to hitting his targets in rhythm and on time. I think we all recognize that it’s a different thing when it’s game speed, but those are two areas where he benefitted by being able to focus on his game for the last 12 weeks of the 2014 season.

CB: I don’t think a trade to acquire a quarterback can be ruled out, but the Bills have limited assets in the way of draft choices (no 1st or 4th). Hoyer is a limited NFL QB. I believe everybody recognizes that. I think the more likely scenario is picking up a veteran in free agency and then drafting one in the middle rounds.

3 – Chris,

Bills fan from Toronto here. Just having thoughts about our team here…

How much do you think Hughes/Spiller are asking for and how much do you think the bills are willing to give them? Also do the Bills still have their franchise tag and if so would they use it on Hughes?
Is adrian peterson an option if C.J. spiller takes his talents elsewhere (ny jets)?
What are they gonna do about their QB situation??? Are they gonna draft maybe Hundley in 2nd round, sign Mark Sanchez or maybe trade for Sam Bradford or Jay Cutler?

Over the last two seasons Hughes is tied for the fourth-most sacks in the league (20) behind only J.J. Watt, Rams pass rusher Robert Quinn and Mario Williams. He’s tied with Cameron Wake and the Saints’ Cameron Jordan. Watt and Williams are the two highest paid defensive ends in the league in terms of average salary at $16.6M and $16M.

They’re followed by Quinn ($14.2/yr) and Carolina’s Charles Johnson ($12.6M). Wake signed his extension back in 2012 and it averages only $6.6M.

Now the Bills will probably argue that Hughes plays with three Pro Bowl players on Buffalo’s defensive line and is rarely seeing double teams. But it’s hard to knock a guy that’s producing, and doing it for more than one year.

I fear that the Hughes camp will be asking for around $10M a season in a long term deal. That could be a tough one to manage knowing that Mario and Kyle Williams are the top two salaries on the club in terms of average salary already with Dareus sixth on the roster. We’ll see. I don’t think the franchise tag is a realistic option for Buffalo.

As for Spiller it will be interesting to see if there’s a difference of opinion on his true value between he and the Bills. Paying top dollar for Spiller is probably difficult to justify in light of his recent history of injuries.

There’s no debating his home-run talent and he’s a good teammate in the locker room, but with another new offensive system coming in you wonder how he’ll weigh that into his decision on where to play. There’s also no dismissing the fact that the coach who helped him enjoy his most productive season is the offensive coordinator in New York.

Adrian Peterson is a great fit for a power run game, but I’d be surprised if he moves on from Minnesota.

The QB situation for Buffalo is obviously up in the air. They have to see who actually makes it to the free agent market or if there are any trade opportunities that might surface. The draft is probably where they’ll add one too. How early is the question.

4- Hi Chris, I have two questions:

Would the Bills draft an additional running back given the fact that Rex Ryan wants to ground and pound?

Two college prospects, Malcolm Brown and Matt Davis seem like good fits, plus they are projected to be drafted in the later rounds.

Besides looking at Mark Sanchez, would the Bills look at Ryan Mallet? Or Christian Ponder? I think Ryan Mallet would be the best fit, because he is younger. Obviously, E.J. Manuel is an option, but he has to read defenses better.

In summary, Rex Ryan has quite a bit of talent to work with, but if the offense is dysfunctional, it will compromise the efforts of the defense. Even a great defense will fold if its on the field for long stretches of time.

Your thoughts,
Tony, Ormond Beach, Fl

CB: I think there’s a pretty good bet that the Bills draft a running back at some point in the draft. This year’s class is deep at that position, thanks in large part to the junior eligibles that have declared. Buffalo needs to add some youth there and a true pile pusher that preferably has some wiggle to his game and receiving ability.

With that in mind it’s hard to find the perfect prospect. I believe there are a few that fit all of the criteria well enough in this draft. I do like South Carolina’s Mike Davis. Great person and player in the Fred Jackson mold and carries a bit more power behind his pads. Does everything right and has NFL bloodlines with his older brother James Davis a former 6th-round pick of Cleveland in 2009.

You could do worse than guys like Boise State’s Jay Ajayi and Alabama’s T.J. Yeldon when it comes to a power run game. Unfortunately a good number of the true power backs coming out this year aren’t big in the receiving game.

At quarterback I don’t know if Mallett is a fit because his skill set is in stark contrast to that of Manuel. I’m not saying he’s off the table, but he’s a strict pocket guy while Manuel has movement ability. How much would the offense need to change from one to the other if there was an injury to the winner of the competition? I know Ryan said Sanchez is a consideration at his press conference, but I’m not sure of that.

I do know that there isn’t a whole lot of quality to choose from.

5 – Chris,

In the new defense, where do you see the linebackers position playing out? Kiko did play well in the 3-4 under Pettine. Preston and Nigel did well in the 4-3, how do they fit into a 3-4 scheme. Nigel isn’t a thumper/ pure pass rusher. Will Manny Lawson kick back outside as a pass rusher, same with Hughes (if he can stay?). Curious how this will unfold since this unit had a great 2014.

CB: This is an interesting question. I think we can expect to see Manny Lawson on the field more, particularly on run downs like we did in 2013, when Jerry Hughes rotated in on passing downs. I’d expect to see Kiko Alonso on the open side at OLB, then it’s probably Bradham and Brown in the middle in a 3-4 look.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/13/fan-friday-2-13-2/feed/0Chris BrownRex on having faced EJ in gameshttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/12/rex-on-having-faced-ej-in-games/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/12/rex-on-having-faced-ej-in-games/#commentsThu, 12 Feb 2015 18:06:14 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42787]]>
Bills head coach Rex Ryan clearly remembers the two times he went against EJ Manuel when he was a rookie QB in 2013. The two games were a major contrast in performance on the part of the Bills quarterback.

In the first meeting on the road, Manuel’s first career road start, he was flustered and struggled to make plays. Buffalo fell behind and the pass pressure was unrelenting. Manuel finished 19-42 passing for 243 yards and a touchdown and a passer rating of 71.8.

“The first time we played him I think we overwhelmed him a little bit,” said Ryan in an interview this week on Bills flagship station WGR Sportsradio 550. “I think we sacked him eight or nine times. But he’s a young guy. Now the next time we came out he beat us so he made some improvements. You could see him getting better.”

Two months later Manuel started against the Jets in Week 11 at Ralph Wilson stadium and was a different quarterback. He completed 20-28 passes for 245 yards and a pair of touchdowns with a passer rating of 121.9 in a 37-14 Bills win.

Manuel had his share of scrambles and runs as a rookie with 53 carries in 2013, but in his four games last year he took off and ran just 16 times. Ryan would like to see that number increase.

“The one thing I think we need to embrace and he needs to embrace is he can move,” said Ryan. “Use your legs. Sometimes when it’s not there use your legs and know how to protect yourself and get out of bounds, sliding and things like that.

“You might recall with Mark Sanchez I actually brought in Joe Girardi about how to slide. Do something like that where he feels comfortable sliding. When you look at him early when he first started he was able to use his legs and he unfortunately got hurt running. So you’ve got to protect yourself running in this league too.”

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/12/rex-on-having-faced-ej-in-games/feed/0Chris BrownEJ ManuelRyan knows why Hughes prefers Billshttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/12/ryan-knows-why-hughes-prefers-bills/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/12/ryan-knows-why-hughes-prefers-bills/#commentsThu, 12 Feb 2015 15:59:41 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42774]]>As we covered on Buffalobills.com Wednesday, Jerry Hughes is set to become a free agent after back-to-back 10 sacks seasons. On SiriusXM NFL Radio he said that the Bills are his first choice. His new head coach Rex Ryan isn’t the least bit surprised by Hughes preference for two very important reasons.

“I think any defensive player always wants to play in this system, period,” Ryan said. “I’ve had a lot of great ones through the years. This is a young man who really stepped up and quite honestly his first year when he came here it was like, ‘Okay that’s the Jerry Hughes everybody was waiting for when he was a first-round pick of the Colts.’ Then he had the 10-sack year last year. But when you put him alongside Kyle Williams, Marcell Dareus and Super Mario it’s an unbelievable group. Why would you want to leave that?”

Free agency officially opens on March 10th.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/12/ryan-knows-why-hughes-prefers-bills/feed/0Chris BrownRex Ryan appearance at Auto Showhttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/06/rex-ryan-appearance-at-auto-show/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/06/rex-ryan-appearance-at-auto-show/#commentsFri, 06 Feb 2015 20:46:07 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42705]]>Rex Ryan made an appearance at the Buffalo Auto Show on Thursday. He greeted Bills fans and signed autographs.

The Auto Show will be celebrating “One Buffalo” all week with various Buffalo sports stars. Rex appeared with members of the Buffalo Bandits and was outfitted in One Buffalo gear.

Former Buffalo Bills LB Darryl Talley will be signing autographs and greeting fans on Saturday, February 7 from 5 – 6:30 p.m. Commemorative t-shirts, designed by former Buffalo Bills teammate Mike Hamby, will be for sale with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Talley’s battles against depression and other mental illnesses.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/06/rex-ryan-appearance-at-auto-show/feed/0rglicata33rex-autoshow-22_One Buffalo_2 ad ALL_4cRex Ryan, Talley, Bennett to attend Auto Showhttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/04/rex-ryan-talley-bennett-to-attend-auto-show/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/04/rex-ryan-talley-bennett-to-attend-auto-show/#commentsWed, 04 Feb 2015 17:40:45 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42665]]>This year’s Buffalo Auto Show that takes place at the Buffalo Convention center from February 5 to February 8, 2015 will celebrate One Buffalo and the sports teams that unify our city. The Buffalo Bills will be well represented with various appearances at the event.

Head Coach Rex Ryan will be in attendance Thursday, February 5 from 6 – 7 p.m.

Former Buffalo Bills LB Darryl Talley will be signing autographs and greeting fans on Saturday, February 7 from 5 – 6:30 p.m. Commemorative t-shirts to raise money for Darryl Talley will be for sale. The t-shirt was designed by former Buffalo Bills and teammate Mike Hamby and 100% of the proceeds will go to Talley.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/04/rex-ryan-talley-bennett-to-attend-auto-show/feed/0rglicata33CM4_17172_One Buffalo_2 ad ALL_4ctalley and bennett image oneWhat Rex Ryan provides for Bills fanshttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/04/what-rex-ryan-provides-for-bills-fans/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/04/what-rex-ryan-provides-for-bills-fans/#commentsWed, 04 Feb 2015 15:27:18 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42661]]>It’s pretty obvious in most cases as to just what Rex Ryan will provide as head coach of the Bills in 2015. Fans are very familiar with his confidence, bravado and aggressiveness. Bills owner Kim Pegula believes those qualities provide a secondary benefit for fans.

“They have a lot to be excited about,” said Pegula of the Bills fans. “Sometimes change is good and in this case I think it provides another layer of hope and enthusiasm going into the season. Rex is going to be himself and what you see is what you get with him and I think that’s going to go a long way with our fans.”

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/04/what-rex-ryan-provides-for-bills-fans/feed/0Chris BrownRex turns Jets tattoo Bills bluehttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/03/rex-turns-jets-tattoo-bills-blue/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/03/rex-turns-jets-tattoo-bills-blue/#commentsTue, 03 Feb 2015 14:02:55 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42646]]>
Rex Ryan is a head coach known for wearing his emotions on his sleeve. Apparently he wears his NFL allegiance directly on his arm as well. After getting a Jets themed tattoo of his wife, Michelle, on his right arm in a Jets jersey, he’s had that Jets jersey changed.

The Wall Street Journal reported Monday that Ryan, in town before the Super Bowl, has donated all of his old New York Jets apparel to a local charity and needed to freshen up his body art.

“I mean, you’ve got to turn the page,” Ryan told the newspaper.

So, he had the image of his wife in a Jets jersey — the original No. 6 was previously colored over in green — changed to a Bills jersey.

“I’m all in,” Ryan said.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/03/rex-turns-jets-tattoo-bills-blue/feed/0Chris BrownHC-GT423_Tattoo_G_20150202165012Revis updatehttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/03/revis-update/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/03/revis-update/#commentsTue, 03 Feb 2015 13:16:42 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42644]]>While speculation swirls about the future of CB Darrelle Revis in New England, knowing there’s a $25M cap charge on the second (team option) year of his contract with the Patriots, Revis himself is unsure of how things will play out.

“The offseason will weigh itself out,” Revis told Reiss immediately after the game. “I’m just so happy for us as a team, accomplishing the ultimate goal, winning the Super Bowl. I have a great team on my side and we’ll figure my future out in the offseason.”

New England does have a track record of not overpaying for players, so the speculation is that the Patriots will try to come to a revamped agreement to keep Revis in the fold.

There was speculation during Super Bowl week that if Revis and the Patriots could not reach an accord if a revamped contract was necessary that reuniting with former head coach Rex Ryan in Buffalo was a possibility as was a potential return to the New York Jets.

Jets are expected to pursue free-agent-to-be CB Darrelle Revis to see if they can bring him back to New York, per sources.

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/03/revis-update/feed/0Chris BrownBills eager to back up Ryan’s wordshttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/02/bills-eager-to-back-up-ryans-words/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/02/bills-eager-to-back-up-ryans-words/#commentsMon, 02 Feb 2015 17:45:15 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42633]]>At his introductory press conference Rex Ryan said that everyone in Buffalo should get ready for the playoffs because they’re going. Just how did that sit with the players in the Bills’ locker room? Just fine.

CB Leodis McKelvin told Buffalobills.com that it has the balance of Buffalo’s locker room ready to do whatever it takes to end the franchise’s 15-year playoff drought.

“You want to go out there and play for him,” said McKelvin. “You want to go out there and back up his words whatever he may say. You want to go out there and win. That’s the goal we always have and that’s how he feels. So we want to go out and win and go to the playoffs.”

McKelvin, like most NFL players, did some recon work in finding out more about Rex Ryan’s defensive scheme that was run by defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman. McKelvin talked to a friend of his on the Jets who used to be a teammate of his in Buffalo.

“I talked to Ellis Lankster who plays down there and he used to be up here and talked to him about coverages and things,” said McKelvin. “He pretty much told me that it’ll be the same thing we’ve been doing, just playing man-to-man coverage and just making sure to stay on your guy. We’re going to blitz though so the ball is going to be out. That might be the biggest difference from last year.”

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/02/02/bills-eager-to-back-up-ryans-words/feed/0Chris BrownJackson: Rex will push us over the humphttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/01/30/jackson-rex-will-push-us-over-the-hump/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/01/30/jackson-rex-will-push-us-over-the-hump/#commentsFri, 30 Jan 2015 19:20:31 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42629]]>Bills RB Fred Jackson was on radio row at the Super Bowl this week in Glendale, Arizona and made an appearance on the Michael Kay show on ESPN radio. Asked for his take on how new head coach Rex Ryan will change things for the better for the Bills, Jackson expressed confidence that Ryan can be a difference maker.

“I think we’re right there and I think he’s going to be that catalyst that pushes us over that hump,” Jackson said. “Everybody knows that Rex is going to come in and say things like we’re going to the playoffs. With that kind of mantra and blood flowing through the city I think we get the job done and get into the playoffs and make a run at the Super Bowl.”

]]>http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/01/30/jackson-rex-will-push-us-over-the-hump/feed/0Chris BrownLevy on what makes a winning coachhttp://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/01/30/levy-on-what-makes-a-winning-coach/
http://blogs.buffalobills.com/2015/01/30/levy-on-what-makes-a-winning-coach/#commentsFri, 30 Jan 2015 17:55:58 +0000http://blogs.buffalobills.com/?p=42603]]>Bills Hall of Fame coach Marv Levy was enormously successful in his second go round as a head coach in the NFL in Buffalo. He’s a big part of our story today on Buffalobills.com as we look at the trend of Super Bowl success for second-time head coaches and how it may apply to Bills new head coach Rex Ryan. In the conversation with Levy by phone he laid out three of the most important qualities in a successful head coach.

“Every good coach to me has these three qualities,” said Levy. “He’s a good teacher, and he can inject his own personality, but he gets his teaching across to the players and they buy in and see the value of his teaching. Two and this is overwhelmingly important, he works well with others in the organization. Yeah you can disagree, but don’t be disagreeable. Whether it’s who you ought to draft or stuff of that nature. Third he’s a straight shooter.”

Ryan explained some of the experience he gained in working with young quarterbacks in New York that he believes will help him with EJ Manuel in Buffalo in his sitdown interview with Buffalobills.com. He talked about how they don’t intend to give Manuel 600 plays to memorize. Levy saw that as a smart move on Ryan’s part.

“One of the greatest things that helped us in our success, and if I had any advice for any other coach I’d say throw away half your playbook,” said Levy. “Our no huddle offense, we had a playbook about 20 percent the size of all of those in the league, so that’s an astute remark on Rex’s part I would think.”

The recent public comments of Brandon Spikes and Doug Whaley regarding his future in Buffalo as a upcoming pending free agent did not provide me with much confidence that he will return. Ultimately money and potential playing time will dictate the outcome and with the return of Alonso and big contracts to be spent elsewhere it doesn’t look particularly promising that he will be back in my opinion.

I think a strong argument can be made for re-signing Spikes. He provides attitude, toughness and leadership to the position and helped to significantly improve the team’s run defense this year. He seemed sincere when he recently commented about enjoying playing in Buffalo and gives the impression that he loves playing the game. Sounds exactly like the kind of player we need to retain. Just wondering what your thoughts are of whether you think there could be a role for Spikes next year with the return of Alonso and if you think the Bills will submit a serious bid to retain Spikes or instead look for the cheaper option of adding depth players behind the projected starters?

Regards
Matt

CB: It’s hard to say what Buffalo’s plans are concerning Spikes. Alonso’s return is a factor, but I think at the right price Spikes could return to the fold, possibly on another one-year deal. I do remember during a conference call this past season that Rex Ryan who was coaching the Jets at the time said the following about Spikes.

“(Brandon) Spikes is one of those guys that I like because he’s a tough guy, a mean guy, a tough a**,” said Ryan. “I like guys that are competitors and that’s why I like him so much.”

Whether Ryan’s opinion of Spikes has any influence remains to be seen, but it would appear that Spikes has an admirer in Buffalo’s new head coach.

2 - Hi Chris,

Thanks for all the great coverage you continue to provide.

I was wondering what you think the best approach would be in addressing the quarterback postion. Also, do you see Mike Glennon as a fit? I know the Bills were rumored to have liked him coming out of the 2013 draft, and I like much of what I’ve seen from him so far in Tampa. He should be expendable as the Bucs are expected to take a QB #1 overall. What’s your take on Glennon’s potential?

Thanks,
Joe

CB: Glennon I felt took a bit of a step back in his second season, which was impacted by a new offense and coordinator. He was also in and out of the lineup with veteran Josh McCown earning the starting job out of training camp. Much like EJ Manuel he is limited with his number of starts after getting only six this past season (19 in his career).

His completion percentage is comparable to Manuel’s (under 60) and he struggled when blitzed this past year. There’s no doubting that his arm strength would be an asset in the conditions the Bills play in at home, but his mobility is limited.

Knowing his skill set is dramatically different to that of EJ Manuel (see: mobility), it’s hard to know if that would be viewed as a negative or a positive or irrelevant by the new staff. I don’t know if Glennon is seen as a match, but it wouldn’t surprise me if the Bills add a young QB in the league or a veteran signal caller either via free agency or a trade.

3 - CB,

What do you think the Bills plan of attack for fixing the O-Line? Richardson stills seems developmental and is poor at pass blocking. Pears should be let go and Urbik is average guard. With Williams injured and unclear if he will come back, how many guards do you expect them to bring in? Free agency or draft? It may hard to find a day 1 starter in draft but they need new guys in there.
Thanks!
Josh

CB: I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Bills draft a guard and add one in free agency. Buffalo has some young guys already in the fold as you mentioned, but both Doug Whaley and Rex Ryan made it clear they’re going to bring in competition at positions where it’s warranted.

Erik Pears is an unrestricted free agent. Kraig Urbik is a capable player. Chris Williams should be back healthy in time for spring workouts.

One big plus is the hiring of Aaron Kromer, who has produced at least one Pro Bowl lineman on the teams he has coached the last six years. He’s a proven teacher and developer of linemen, so hopefully the younger players on the roster will take a big step forward in their development and be bigger contributors (See: Henderson, Kouandjio, Richardson).

4 - Chris,

On a lighter subject, do you think the Bills would consider going back to their Red helmets? Best years in franchise history were with the Blue uniforms and red helmets.

RC from DC

CB: I would not anticipate that happening. Outside of a throwback type of thing I think you’ll see the white helmets for a long time.

5 - Hello Chris,

I have really enjoyed the information I have received from your Inside the Bills write ups. Thanks for keeping us informed.

Recently, I read and article on NFL.com, in which Mario Williams was excited about moving to the Linebacker position. To date, that information has not shown up on the buffalbills.com website. I have always believe the 4 3 defense was the best scheme, and our personnel matches that scheme. As our defense was one of the top defenses in the league, I am not clear if Rex and company intend to shift to a 3 4 defense. My thoughts are why? Then there is the statement, ” You don’t fix what is broken”. Can you shed some light on what is going on with the Buffalo Bills defensive scheme for 2015?

Thanks
Peter

CB: I think I will let defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman handle this one. He was asked this week if he’s going to run a 3-4 or a 4-3 front. Here was his answer.

“(I will run) whatever talent dictates,” said Thurman. “We’ll play a 3-4. We’ll play a 4-3. We’ll get in a Forty-Six. We’ll give them an odd front. It’s whatever our guys do best and we’re going to play to their strengths and when you do that, you’re giving your guys a chance to be successful and that’s what it really comes down to…is those guys that are out there on that field, are you giving them the opportunity to go out and succeed? So it doesn’t matter. The scheme will be dictated by the personnel that we have.”

I don’t think there’s any debating that Rex Ryan’s defense are largely a hybrid scheme that can morph and change. So to label it a strict over or under front would be inaccurate. And I think Mario Williams will see a healthy amount of action up on the line of scrimmage.